Things To Do This Weekend February 27-March 1, 2026

By: Stephanie Wylie 02/25/2026

As the final weekend of February arrives, Lake County is set to close out the winter season with a variety of community celebrations and events. Whether you are looking to honor cultural milestones, embrace the final frosty days of the season, or get a head start on spring excitement, there is something for everyone in the lineup of activities scheduled this weekend.

Don't miss the last weekend of Lake County February Flavor Festival and your chance to win prizes with the Lake County Check-in Challenge! 

Let's look at the top five things to do this weekend, February 20-22, 2026.

1. 36th Annual Black History Celebration in Zion

Gather with the community in Zion for its 36th Annual Black History Celebration. Hosted by the Zion Park District in partnership with local educators, marking more than three decades of honoring Black history not as a static lesson but as a living, evolving legacy. This year's theme, "The Century Mark: A Legacy in Motion," reflects both reflection and forward momentum. It's an acknowledgment of the past paired with an invitation to imagine what comes next. The program features music, poetry, dance and spoken word, creating an immersive experience that highlights Black history. Lunch will be provided for all attendees, emphasizing the event's core mission of community and togetherness. For more information, visit ZionParkDistrict.com.

Saturday, February 28; Noon-2 p.m. Free admission. Zion-Benton Township High School, 3901 W. 21 St., Zion.

2. 41st Salute to Gospel Music in Waukegan

The City of Progress’s long-running Salute to Gospel Music returns, transforming the sanctuary of Jesus Name Apostolic Church into a gathering place for celebration, reflection and joy. The salute has become a cultural touchstone, drawing audiences from across Lake County to honor the enduring influence of Black gospel music. This year’s headliner is Charles Jenkins, the Chicago-born gospel star known for chart-topping anthems like “War” and “Awesome.” Jenkins, whose career bridges music, ministry and civic engagement, will share the stage with the College of Lake County Gospel Choir, led by director Matthew Hunter. More than just a concert, the Waukegan event serves as a reminder that gospel music is a living tradition. Through performances by local and national talent, the celebration honors resilience, joy and collective hope that continue to echo through our communities. For tickets, visit JLCenter.CLCIllinois.edu.

Saturday, February 28; 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $22. Jesus Name Apostolic Church, 208 Lake St., Waukegan.

3. Northern Illinois Boat Show at Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center

The Northern Illinois Boat Show returns, turning the exhibition hall into a preview of summer on the water. The multi-day Grayslake show brings together more than 200 new and used boats under one roof, offering a comprehensive selection ahead of boating season. The show features vessels from more than 50 leading manufacturers, presented by local dealers who specialize in matching buyers with the right fit for Midwest waters. From sleek bow riders and family-friendly deck boats to ski, wakeboard and wakesurf models designed for performance. The Northern Illinois Boat Show offers a tangible reminder that warmer days are on the way. For details, visit IllinoisBoatShow.com.

Fri.-Sun., February 27-March 1; Fri.: 12-8 p.m., Sat.: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sun.: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults: $9 and children under 12 are free. Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake.

4. Frozen Fest in Libertyville

Frozen Fest will be hosted this Saturday at Libertyville's Cook Park on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. The family-friendly event promises an afternoon of outdoor activities designed to embrace the final stretch of winter. The festival features ice-carving demonstrations, live reindeer, complimentary hot cocoa and horse-drawn wagon rides. Families can also enjoy photo opportunities with characters inspired by "Frozen" and take guided tours of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places Ansel Cook House. As part of an expanded effort, the Village of Fox Lake Parks and Recreation Department has partnered with the event to offer a unique excursion. Families can take a designated Metra train from Fox Lake, featuring onboard activities, for a seamless trip directly into downtown Libertyville. For further particulars, visit LibertyvilleRecreation.com.

Saturday, February 28; 1-4 p.m. Free admission. Cook Park, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville.

5. Wauconda Winter Fest

Wauconda’s annual Winterfest returns to Lindy’s Landing, serving as a lively celebration of the season, blending family-friendly entertainment with local engagement. The day kicks off with a Character Brunch featuring appearances by beloved characters from “Bluey” and “Paw Patrol.” Throughout the afternoon, the Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce will host the annual Soup Smackdown, with attendees sampling local soups and all donations benefiting the Wauconda Food Pantry. Additionally, the Wauconda Moose Lodge #1969 will hold its largest meat raffle of the year to support the Wauconda High School Booster Club. Live music on the restaurant’s beach deck rounds out the festivities, featuring performances by artists Bill Uhler and Ian Haith. Winterfest highlights the strength of the Wauconda community, bringing together residents, local businesses and volunteers for a day of shared tradition. Visit LindysLanding.com for more information.

Sunday, March 1; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission. Lindy’s Landing, 115 Park St., Wauconda.

Click here to see more things to do this weekend February 27-March 1, 2026.

Remember that our annual Lake County February Flavor Fest going on all month long! And don't forget to join the Libation Trail and Flavor Fest Check-In Challenges. Click here to learn more about this month-long celebration.